Home Appliance Device

ABSTRACT

For the purpose of increasing flexibility a home appliance device, in particular a home chiller appliance device, is proposed. The novel device includes at least one functional housing, which is arranged at least largely within an insulation-receiving chamber and defines at least one receiving space for receiving at least one functional unit, the functional housing being implemented self-supporting by having a reinforcement feature for at least substantially maintaining a shape of the functional housing during a foaming process of the insulation-receiving chamber.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a home appliance device, in particular a homechiller appliance device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An objective of the invention is, in particular, to provide a homeappliance device with improved characteristics regarding flexibility.This objective is achieved, according to the claimed invention. Furtherimplementations and further developments of the invention may begathered from the dependent claims.

In one aspect of the invention, which may in particular be considered incombination with as well as separately from other aspects of theinvention, a home appliance device, in particular a home chillerappliance device, is proposed, comprising: at least one functionalhousing, which is arranged at least largely within aninsulation-receiving chamber and defines at least one receiving spacefor receiving at least one functional unit, the functional housing beingimplemented self-supporting by having a reinforcement feature for atleast substantially maintaining a shape of the functional housing duringa foaming process of the insulation-receiving chamber.

By means of this aspect of the invention, in particular a flexibility ofthe home appliance device can be improved. In particular, an improvedstability of the home appliance device may be achieved. Thus, inparticular a fatigue strength and/or a durability of the home appliancedevice may be advantageously increased. In addition, an efficiency, inparticular a manufacturing efficiency, an installation space efficiency,a component efficiency and/or a cost efficiency, can be improved.Moreover, a particularly high-grade ease of use may be obtained.

By a “home appliance device” is in particular to be understood at leasta part and/or a portion, preferably a sub-assembly group, of a homeappliance. The home appliance is in particular provided for storing andpreferably tempering victuals such as beverages, meat, fish, vegetables,fruits, milk and/or dairy products in at least one operating state,advantageously for the purpose of enhancing a quality and/or akeepability of the stored victuals. For this purpose, the home appliancedevice may in particular comprise at least one home appliance housingwhich in particular defines at least one storage space and/or at leastone home appliance door which, is in particular configured for closingand preferably sealing off the storage space. For example, the homeappliance is embodied as a home chiller appliance, which is in at leastone operating state configured for cooling victuals. The home chillerappliance could in particular be embodied as a climate cabinet, anice-box, a refrigerator, a freezer, a refrigerator-freezer combinationand/or a wine cooler. However, the home appliance could also be embodiedas a home appliance for warming and in particular for cooking victuals,e.g. an oven, a steamer and/or a microwave. In this context,“configured” is in particular to mean specifically programmed, designedand/or equipped. By an object being configured for a certain function isin particular to be understood that the object implements and/orfulfills said certain function in at least one application state and/oroperating state. The term “at least largely” is to mean, in particular,at least 55% or at least 65% or at least 75% or at least 85% or at least95%.

Moreover, an “insulation-receiving chamber” is, in particular, to beunderstood as a space and/or a region which is filled with insulationmaterial, for example foam insulation, in particular during a foamingprocess, and/or contains insulation material, for example foaminsulation, in at least one operational state. In particular, theinsulation-receiving chamber is defined and/or delimited by the homeappliance door, in particular an inner wall and/or inner walls of thehome appliance door, and/or by the home appliance housing, in particularan inner wall and/or inner walls of the home appliance housing. Inparticular, the insulation-receiving chamber is implemented spatiallyseparate, for example isolated, with respect to the storage space. A“functional housing” is, in particular, to be understood as a housing,in particular a sub-housing of the home appliance device, which is, inparticular, implemented separately from the home appliance door and/orthe home appliance housing and which is for example at least in anassembled state connected to the home appliance door and/or the homeappliance housing in a form-fit, a force-fit and/or an adhesively and/orcohesively bonded manner. In particular, the functional housing may beimplemented in a plurality of parts and/or integrally. More preferably,the functional housing is arranged above the storage space and/or at aside of the home appliance which faces away from a base and/or a groundof the home appliance. In an assembled state the functional housing maybe arranged such that the receiving space of the functional housing isat least partly, preferably at least largely and more preferablycompletely, accessible from an outside and in particular from anenvironment of the home appliance. In particular, the receiving spacemay have at least one or exactly one, receiving opening, in particular afront opening, which in particular delimits the receiving space and maybe arranged at least substantially parallel to a main extension plane ofthe home appliance door and/or the home appliance housing. Moreover, inan assembled state the functional unit may be removably located withinthe receiving space of the functional housing in particular by insertingthe functional unit into the receiving space and/or by removing thefunctional unit from the receiving space via the receiving opening. Thefunctional unit may be implemented as a lighting unit and/or aventilation unit. However, preferably the functional unit is implementedas a door opening assistance unit, which is in particular configured forreducing an opening force required for opening the home appliance door.For this purpose, the functional unit and in particular at least onefunctional element of the functional unit may contact the home appliancedoor in at least one operational state, e.g. when the door openingassistance is assisting in opening the door. In a different operationalstate, e.g. when the door opening assistance unit is not activated, thevery same functional unit and in particular at least one functionalelement of the functional unit may not contact the home appliance door.“Implemented integrally” is in particular to mean, in this context,connected at least by substance-to-substance bond, e.g. by a weldingprocess, an adhesive bonding, an injection-molding process and/or byanother process that is deemed expedient by a person having ordinaryskill in the art. “Implemented integrally” could in particular mean madeof one piece. “Made of one piece” is, in particular, to mean, in thiscontext, manufactured from one single piece, e.g. by production from onesingle cast and/or by manufacturing in a one-component ormulti-component injection-molding process, and for example from a singleblank. Moreover, a “main extension plane” of an object is, inparticular, to be understood as a plane extending parallel to a largestside of an imaginary rectangular cuboid which only just entirelyencloses the object and preferably extends through a geometric center ofthe object. Moreover, “at least substantially parallel” is in particularto be understood as an orientation of a direction with respect to areference direction, in particular in a plane, wherein the direction andthe reference direction include an angle of 0°, the orientation inparticular having a deviation of less than 15°, advantageously of lessthan 10° and particularly advantageously of less than 2°.

A “reinforcement feature” is in particular to mean a unit and/or astructure which is preferably implemented integrally with a base body ofthe functional housing and which is in particular configured tostrengthen the functional housing, to reinforce the functional housingand/or to increase a mechanical stability of the functional housing, inparticular against a pressure of the insulation material, in particularat least during a foaming process of the insulation-receiving chamber.Moreover, the expression “at least substantially maintaining a shape ofthe functional housing” is, in particular, to mean that thereinforcement feature is configured for preventing an excessivedeformation of the functional housing, in particular at least during afoaming process of the insulation-receiving chamber, in particular insuch a way that the functional unit can be inserted into the receivingspace and/or removed from the receiving space after the foaming processand/or in at least one operational state of the home appliance. Thereinforcement feature may also enlarge contact surfaces of thefunctional housing facing the insulation-receiving chamber and being incontact with the insulation material. This improves the bond between thefunctional housing and the insulation material.

The reinforcement feature may comprise at least one reinforcementelement, which is arranged at least partly or at least largely orcompletely, within the receiving space. In particular, the reinforcementelement is connected to an inner wall of the functional housing andpreferably implemented integrally with the inner wall of the functionalhousing. In this way, a stability of the functional housing may beincreased easily.

In particular, for the purpose of achieving a particularly rigidfunctional housing, the reinforcement feature may comprise at least onefurther reinforcement element, which is arranged at least partly or atleast largely or completely, outside the receiving space. In particular,the further reinforcement element may be connected to an exterior sideand/or an outer wall of the functional housing and may preferably beimplemented integrally with the exterior side and/or outer wall of thefunctional housing. In particular, the further reinforcement element maybe connected to the reinforcement element, which is in particulararranged within the receiving space. However, preferably the furtherreinforcement element and the reinforcement element are embodiedseparate and/or spaced apart from each other.

Moreover, it is proposed that the reinforcement feature and inparticular the further reinforcement element may cover merely a portion,in particular less than 95% or less than 85% or less than 75%, of anexterior side and/or an outer wall of the functional housing. In thisway, a mounting and/or assembling process of the functional housing canbe advantageously improved.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the reinforcement feature may compriseat least two reinforcement elements, for example the reinforcementelement and the further reinforcement element, which are shapeddifferently. As a result, the reinforcement feature can be adapted to ashape of the functional housing easily.

The reinforcement feature may comprise at least one reinforcementelement, in particular the reinforcement element and/or preferably thefurther reinforcement element, which is honeycomb-shaped. In this way, aparticularly rigid functional housing may be obtained.

It is also proposed that the reinforcement feature may comprise at leastone reinforcement element, in particular the further reinforcementelement and/or preferably the reinforcement element, which isrib-shaped. In this way, the reinforcement feature may be optimallyadapted to a shape of the functional housing.

It is also proposed that at least one reinforcement element, inparticular the reinforcement element and/or preferably the furtherreinforcement element, may be honeycomb-shaped and may be connected toan exterior side and/or an outer wall of the functional housing while atleast one reinforcement element, in particular the further reinforcementelement and/or preferably the reinforcement element, may be isrib-shaped and may be connected to the inner wall of the functionalhousing. In this way, a rigid functional housing results which still canbe easily manufactured, e.g. by injection moulding.

The functional housing may be implemented at least partly or leastlargely or completely of metal, like steel and/or aluminum. It isproposed that the functional housing may be implemented at least partlyor at least largely or completely, of plastic. In this way, inparticular, a manufacturing process of the functional housing may besimplified. The functional housing may be manufactured by plasticinjection molding.

Additionally, it is proposed that the functional housing may have afastening unit, in particular a first fastening unit, for fastening thefunctional housing to a home appliance housing, in particular theaforementioned home appliance housing, in particular to a front frame ofthe home appliance housing. The fastening unit, in particular the firstfastening unit, may be configured for detachably connecting thefunctional housing to the home appliance housing during themanufacturing process. Thereby, the functional housing may, inparticular, be mounted to the home appliance housing in a mountingdirection which is at least substantially perpendicular to the receivingopening of the receiving space and/or to the main extension plane of thehome appliance housing and/or preferably at least substantially parallelto the receiving opening of the receiving space and/or to the mainextension plane of the home appliance housing. For mounting thefunctional housing to the home appliance housing, the functional housingmay be moved in two directions which are at least substantiallyperpendicular with respect to each other. In this context, “at leastsubstantially perpendicular” is in particular to mean an orientation ofa direction with respect to a reference direction, in particular in aplane, wherein the direction and the reference direction include anangle of 90°, the orientation in particular having a deviation of lessthan 15°, advantageously of less than 10° and particularlyadvantageously of less than 2°. In this way, in particular, aparticularly easy and/or secure mounting of the functional housing maybe achieved.

In addition, it is proposed that the functional housing may have asealing unit for sealing at least one electrical socket, in particularof the home appliance device, which may be located in at least onefurther receiving space of the functional housing, during the foamingprocess. The sealing unit may be implemented as a rubber seal, a gapseal, a chamber seal and/or a labyrinth seal. As a result of this, inparticular, an effective sealing may be obtained.

In another aspect of the invention, which may in particular beconsidered in combination with as well as separately from other aspectsof the invention, a home appliance device, in particular a home chillerappliance device, is proposed comprising: at least one functionalhousing, in particular the aforementioned functional housing, which isarranged at least largely within an insulation-receiving chamber, inparticular the aforementioned insulation-receiving chamber, and definesat least one receiving space for receiving at least one functional unit,in particular the aforementioned functional unit; and at least oneattachment element which at least partly or at least largely orcompletely, encompasses the functional housing, in particular in acircumferential direction, in an assembled state.

By means of this aspect of the invention, in particular a flexibility ofthe home appliance device can be improved. In particular, an improvedstability and/or sealing of the home appliance device may be achieved.Thus, in particular a fatigue strength and/or a durability of the homeappliance device may be increased.

An “attachment element” is, in particular, to be understood as anelement which is, in particular, implemented separately from the homeappliance door, the home appliance housing and/or the functional housingand which may, at least in an assembled state, be detachably, connectedto the home appliance door, the home appliance housing and/or thefunctional housing during the manufacturing process. In particular, theattachment element is configured to cover, seal, hold, fasten and/orstabilize the functional housing. The home appliance device may compriseat least two attachment elements which at least partly or at leastlargely or completely, encompass the functional housing, which may beimplemented differently and may fulfil and/or execute differentfunctions and/or purposes.

The attachment element may be arranged at least largely or completelywithin the insulation-receiving chamber. In this way, in particular, aninstallation space efficiency may be improved. Moreover, a design of thehome appliance may be improved.

The attachment element may be connected to the functional housing in anadhesively-bonded and/or cohesively-bonded manner. For the purpose ofimproving an assembly process, it is proposed that the attachmentelement may be connected to the functional housing in a form-fit and/orforce-fit manner and in particular at least partly by a screw connectionand/or by a snap-fit connection.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the attachment element may beimplemented integrally. In this way, in particular, a fatigue strengthand/or a durability of the home appliance device may be improved.

The attachment element may have at least one recess or opening or holein particular for receiving at least one electrical connection element,for receiving at least one mechanical connection element, for receivingat least one pneumatical connection element and/or for a pass-through ofinsulation material, in particular foam material. As a result, inparticular, a particularly high flexibility can be achieved. Moreover,tension and/or friction forces may be reduced. Also the structuralstrength of the attachment element can be increased.

It is also proposed that the attachment element may be mounted to thefunctional housing in a mounting direction which is at leastsubstantially perpendicular to a receiving opening of the receivingspace, in particular the aforementioned receiving space, and/or to themain extension plane of the home appliance housing. For mounting theattachment element to the functional housing, the attachment element maybe moved in two directions which are at least substantiallyperpendicular with respect to each other. In this way, a particularlyeasy and/or secure mounting of the attachment element may be achieved.In particular, the attachment element may be moved in a first stepdownwards and in a second step backward in a viewing direction whenstanding in front of the home appliance.

The attachment element may be implemented at least partly, at leastlargely and/or completely of plastic. It is also proposed that theattachment element may be implemented at least partly, at least largelyor completely of metal, in particular steel and/or aluminum. Inparticular, the attachment element may be made of a punching and bendingpart. By using metal, in particular, a fatigue strength and/or adurability of the home appliance device may be improved. The combinationof a functional housing made of plastic and an attachment element madeof metal may allow a purpose specific integration of a functional unitwithin a comparably cheap functional housing which itself may have astrong support by the attachment element.

According to an implementation of the invention, it is proposed that theattachment element may be implemented as a supporting frame which isconfigured for supporting the functional housing and/or attaching thefunctional housing to the home appliance housing. The attachment elementmay surround the functional housing at least at three sides, e.g. twoessentially vertical sides and one essentially horizontal side of thefunctional housing. The attachment element may be support the functionalhousing only at the two essentially vertical sides. In particular forcesacting from the functional unit onto the functional housing may betransferred into the attachment element and in particular may betransferred via the attachment element into the home appliance housing.As a result, a stability of the home appliance device may beadvantageously improved. There may be at least one gap between theattachment element and the functional housing. In particular, theattachment element and the functional housing may contact each otheressentially only by attachment elements of the attachment frame andholding elements of the functional housing. The gap may be filled withisolation material.

In addition, it is proposed that the attachment element may have afastening unit, in particular a second fastening unit, for fastening theattachment element, in particular directly, and in particular thefunctional housing indirectly, to a home appliance housing, inparticular the aforementioned home appliance housing, for example to thefront frame of the home appliance housing. The fastening unit, inparticular the second fastening unit, is, in particular, implementedseparately from the first fastening unit. The fastening unit, inparticular the second fastening unit, may be configured for detachablyconnecting the attachment element to the home appliance housingpreferably at least partly by a snap-fit connection and/or morepreferably by a screw connection during the manufacturing process. As aresult of this, a strong and yet simple connection may be achieved.

According to one embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that theattachment element may be implemented as a cover for electronics,preferably for covering at least one electrical socket of the homeappliance device, in particular the aforementioned electrical socket. Asa result, a sealing and/or a functional safety of the home appliancedevice may be advantageously improved.

In a further aspect of the invention, which may in particular beconsidered in combination with as well as separately from other aspectsof the invention, a home appliance device, in particular a home chillerappliance device, is proposed, comprising: at least one functionalhousing, in particular the aforementioned functional housing, which isarranged at least largely within an insulation-receiving chamber, inparticular the aforementioned insulation-receiving chamber, and definesat least one receiving space for receiving at least one functional unit,in particular the aforementioned functional unit; and at least one frontcover element covering the receiving space and in particular thereceiving opening of the receiving space at least largely and having, inat least one direction, an extension which exceeds an extension of thereceiving space in said direction by at least 5% or by at least 10% orby at least 15% or by at least 20% or by at least 30%. The direction maybe a lateral direction of the front cover element. In particular,however, the direction is a longitudinal direction of the front coverelement.

By means of this aspect of the invention, in particular a flexibility ofthe home appliance device can be improved. Moreover, the functionalhousing and in particular the functional unit can be protected fromdirt, from dust and/or from damaging. In addition, a design of the homeappliance may be improved. Furthermore, an efficiency, in particular amanufacturing and/or maintenance efficiency, an installation spaceefficiency, a component efficiency and/or a cost efficiency, can beadvantageously improved.

A “front cover element” is, in particular, to be understood as anelement which may, in particular, be implemented separately from thehome appliance door, the home appliance housing and/or the functionalhousing, and which may be, at least in an assembled state, detachably,connected to the home appliance door, the home appliance housing and/orthe functional housing. Particularly, the front cover element may bedimensionally stable. The front cover element and in particular a mainextension plane of the front cover element may be arranged at leastsubstantially parallel to the receiving opening and/or to the mainextension plane of the home appliance door and/or the home appliancehousing. The front cover element may be configured for covering thereceiving space and at least one further component, like a furtherfunctional unit and/or installation parts. In addition, the front coverelement may be implemented at least partly, at least largely orcompletely of metal, in particular steel and/or aluminum, and/orpreferably plastic.

Moreover, it is proposed that the front cover element may be offset withrespect to the receiving space at least viewed in a further directionwhich is at least substantially perpendicular to a main extension planeof the front cover element. In this case, in particular, a geometriccenter of the front cover element may be offset with respect to afurther geometric center of the receiving space at least viewed in thefurther direction which is at least substantially perpendicular to themain extension plane of the front cover element. In this way, animproved covering and/or mounting of the front cover element may beachieved.

In particular, the front cover element may be implemented in a pluralityof parts. However, in particular, for the purpose of increasing astability of the front cover element and/or an ease of use, it isproposed that the front cover element may be implemented integrally.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the front cover element may have atleast one, preferably exactly one, opening for a pass-through of atleast one functional element, in particular an actuation element, of thefunctional unit. The opening may have an at least substantiallyrectangular and/or circular shape. By an “at least substantiallycircular and/or rectangular object”, is to be understood in particularan object which differs from a circular and/or rectangular referenceobject by an area portion which is less than 20%, advantageously lessthan 15% and in particular advantageously less than 10%. In this way, apreferably simple actuation of the functional unit may be achieved.

Additionally, it is proposed that the front cover element may have afastening unit, in particular a third fastening unit, for fastening thefront cover element to a home appliance housing, in particular theaforementioned home appliance housing and preferably the front frame ofthe home appliance housing. The fastening unit, in particular the thirdfastening unit, may, in particular, be implemented separately from thefirst fastening unit and/or the second fastening unit. The fasteningunit, in particular the third fastening unit, may comprise at least onefastening element or at least two or at least four or at least sixfastening elements. The fastening unit, in particular the thirdfastening unit, may be configured for detachably connecting the frontcover element to the home appliance housing, for example at least partlyby a screw connection and/or by a snap-fit connection. In particular,the front cover element may, in particular, be mounted to the homeappliance housing in a mounting direction which is at leastsubstantially perpendicular to the receiving opening of the receivingspace, to the main extension plane of the front cover element and/or tothe main extension plane of the home appliance housing. In this way, inparticular a particularly easy mounting of the front cover element maybe achieved.

In particular, for achieving an easy and/or fast mounting, it is alsoproposed that the fastening unit, in particular the third fasteningunit, may comprise at least one fastening element which is implementedas a snap-fit element. For example, all fastening elements of thefastening unit, in particular the third fastening unit, may beimplemented as snap-fit elements.

Moreover, in a further embodiment, it is proposed that the fasteningunit, in particular the third fastening unit, may comprise at least twofastening elements which are implemented differently. In particular, thefastening elements may be of the same base type, e.g. a connection headmay be identical, but may have a different extend in a directionperpendicular to a front opening which in particular delimits thereceiving space. As a result, the fastening unit, in particular thethird fastening unit, can be adapted to a shape of the front coverelement and/or the home appliance housing easily.

According to a further implementation of the invention, it is proposedthat the front cover element may have at least one depression fordetaching the front cover element, in particular from the home appliancehousing and preferably the front frame of the home appliance housing, inparticular without using tools and/or by merely using simple tools likea screwdriver. The front cover element may have several depressionswherein preferably a number of depressions is equal to a number offastening elements of the fastening unit, in particular the thirdfastening unit, preferably such that each depression is allocated to oneof the fastening elements. As a result, a particularly easy detaching,in particular without destroying the front cover element, may beachieved. The depressions may in particular be located at a borderregion of the front cover element.

In addition, it is proposed that the front cover element may comprise atleast one front panel and at least one spacer element for supporting thefront panel while preventing sink marks preferably by bearing againstthe home appliance housing and preferably the front frame of the homeappliance housing. As a result of this, in particular, a design of thehome appliance may be improved.

Herein the home appliance device is not to be limited to the applicationand implementation described above. In particular, for the purpose offulfilling a functionality herein described, the home appliance devicemay comprise a number of respective elements, structural components andunits that differs from the number mentioned herein. Furthermore,regarding the value ranges mentioned in this disclosure, values withinthe limits mentioned are to be understood to be also disclosed and to beused as applicable.

Further advantages may become apparent from the following description ofthe drawing. In the drawing an exemplary embodiment of the invention isshown. The drawing, the description and the claims contain a pluralityof features in combination. The person having ordinary skill in the artwill purposefully also consider the features separately and will findfurther expedient combinations.

If there is more than one specimen of a certain object, only one ofthese is given a reference numeral in the figures and in thedescription. The description of this specimen may be correspondinglytransferred to the other specimens of the object.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING

FIG. 1 a home appliance comprising a home appliance device, in aschematic front view,

FIG. 2 a portion of the home appliance with the home appliance device,comprising a functional housing, a first attachment element, a secondattachment element and a front cover element, in an exploded view,

FIGS. 3a-e the functional housing in various perspective views,

FIGS. 4a-b the functional housing in an assembled state, in perspectiveviews,

FIG. 5 the first attachment element, which is implemented as asupporting frame, in a perspective view,

FIGS. 6a-b a mounting process of the first attachment element on thefunctional housing,

FIGS. 7a-c the first attachment element attached to the functionalhousing, in various views,

FIG. 8 a mounting process of the first attachment element onto a portionof a home appliance housing,

FIGS. 9a-b the second attachment element which is implemented as a coverfor electronics, in two perspective views,

FIGS. 10a-c the second attachment element in an assembled state, inperspective views,

FIGS. 11a-d the front cover element in various perspective views,

FIG. 12 the front cover element in an assembled state, in a perspectiveview, and

FIG. 13 a flow chart of a method for assembling the home appliancedevice.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIGS. 1 and 2 show a perspective view of an exemplary home appliance 18comprising a home appliance device. In the present case, the homeappliance 18 is implemented as a home chiller appliance, in particularas a refrigerator-freezer combination. Alternatively, a home appliancecould be embodied as any other kind of home chiller appliance, like arefrigerator, a freezer and/or a wine-cooler. In addition, a homeappliance could also be embodied as a home appliance for warming and inparticular for cooking victuals, e.g. an oven, a steamer and/or amicrowave.

The home appliance 18 is configured for cooling victuals. For thispurpose, the home appliance device comprises a home appliance housing20. The home appliance housing 20 comprises an inner liner 22 andseveral side walls 24. In addition, the home appliance housing 20comprises a front frame 26 which in particular encompasses the innerliner 22 and is preferably implemented of metal. The home appliancehousing 20 defines a storage space 28, in particular for storing andtempering the victuals. In the present case, the storage space 28 isdelimited by the inner liner 22. Moreover, the home appliance housing 20defines an insulation-receiving chamber 12. The insulation-receivingchamber 12 is spatially separated from the storage space 28. Theinsulation-receiving chamber 12 is delimited by the inner liner 22, theside walls 24 and the front frame 26.

The home appliance device further comprises at least one home appliancedoor 30. The home appliance door 30 is movably connected to the homeappliance housing 20. In the present case, the home appliance door 30 ispivotally connected to the home appliance housing 20. The home appliancedoor 30 is pivotable about a pivot axis 32 which is perpendicular to abase, a ground and/or a floor space of the home appliance 18. In aclosed state, the home appliance door 30 closes off the home appliancehousing 20, in particular the storage space 28, at least partly. Forcompletely closing off and in particular sealing off the storage space28, the home appliance device comprises a further home appliance door,which for reasons of clarity and comprehensibility no reference numberis given to. Alternatively, a home appliance door could be pivotableabout a pivot axis which is parallel to a base, a ground and/or a floorspace of a home appliance. Moreover, a home appliance door may beconnected to a housing in a linearly movable manner and/or in apush-pull manner. In addition, it is conceivable that a home appliancedevice may comprise exactly one home appliance door.

Moreover, the home appliance device comprises a functional unit 16. Inthe present case, the functional unit 16 is implemented as a dooropening assistance unit. The functional unit 16 is integrated in thehome appliance housing 20. The functional unit 16 is arranged above thestorage space 28 and/or at a side of the home appliance 18 which facesaway from the base, the ground and/or the floor space of the homeappliance 18. The functional unit 16 is configured for reducing anopening force required for opening the home appliance door 30.

For this purpose the functional unit 16 comprises at least one, in thepresent case in particular exactly one, functional element 34. Thefunctional element 34 is implemented as an actuation element. Thefunctional element 34 is movable in a direction which is at leastsubstantially perpendicular to a main extension plane of the homeappliance housing 20. The functional element 34 contacts the homeappliance door 30 and in particular transfers an actuation force to thehome appliance door 30 in at least one operational state, in particularsuch that an opening force is reduced. Alternatively, a functional unitmay be implemented as a lighting unit and/or a ventilation unit.

The home appliance device further comprises at least one functionalhousing 10. In the present case, the home appliance device comprisesexactly one functional housing 10. FIGS. 3a to 3e show the functionalhousing 10 in different perspective views.

The functional housing 10 is implemented integrally. The functionalhousing 10 is implemented of plastic. The functional housing 10 isimplemented separately from the home appliance housing 20. Thefunctional housing 10 is integrated in the home appliance housing 20.The functional housing 10 is arranged at least largely within theinsulation-receiving chamber 12. In an assembled state, the functionalhousing 10 is connected to the home appliance housing 20, in the presentcase in particular to the front frame 26. The functional housing 10 isin the assembled state arranged above the storage space 28 and/or at aside of the home appliance 18 which faces away from the base, the groundand/or the floor space of the home appliance 18.

Moreover, the functional housing 10 is configured for receiving thefunctional unit 16. For this purpose, the functional housing 10 definesa receiving space 14, which in particular has a first receiving opening,for receiving the functional unit 16. In addition, the front frame 26defines an aperture 35 which coincides with the receiving space 14 andin particular the first receiving opening. In the assembled state, thefunctional housing 10 is arranged such that the receiving space 14 isfully accessible from an outside of the home appliance 18. Thereby, thefirst receiving opening is arranged at least substantially parallel tothe main extension plane of the home appliance housing 20.

The functional housing 10 comprises a base body 36. The base body 36delimits the receiving space 14. The base body 36 is at leastsubstantially cup-shaped and/or dome-shaped. The base body 36 comprisesa circumferential collar 38 encompassing the first receiving opening andin particular facing the front frame 26 in an assembled state. In anoperational state, the base body 36 is surrounded by insulationmaterial, in the present case in particular foam insulation.

Furthermore, the functional housing 10 is self-supporting and at leastsubstantially maintains a shape during a foaming process of theinsulation-receiving chamber 12. For this purpose, the functionalhousing 10 comprises a reinforcement feature 40. The reinforcementfeature 40 is implemented as a structural unit. The reinforcementfeature 40 extends over less than 50% and preferably less than 40% of asurface of the base body 36. Herein, the reinforcement feature 40 coversmerely a portion of an exterior side of the functional housing 10. Thereinforcement feature 40 is configured to strengthen the functionalhousing 10 and thus to increase a mechanical stability of the functionalhousing 10, in particular against a pressure of the insulation materialat least during the foaming process of the insulation-receiving chamber12.

The reinforcement feature 40 comprises at least one reinforcementelement 42, 44, 46. In the present case the reinforcement feature 40comprises several reinforcement elements 42, 44, 46.

A first reinforcement element 42 of the reinforcement elements 42, 44,46 is arranged outside the receiving space 14. The first reinforcementelement 42 is arranged on an upper exterior side of the base body 36with respect to the storage space 28 and/or the base, the ground and/orthe floor space of the home appliance 18. The first reinforcementelement 42 extends over less than 85% of the upper exterior side of thebase body 36. The first reinforcement element 42 is honeycomb-shaped.

A second reinforcement element 44 of the reinforcement elements 42, 44,46 is arranged outside the receiving space 14. The second reinforcementelement 44 is arranged on a lower exterior side of the base body 36 withrespect to the storage space 28 and/or the base, the ground and/or thefloor space of the home appliance 18. The second reinforcement element44 extends over less than 40% of the lower exterior side of the basebody 36. The second reinforcement element 44 is honeycomb-shaped.

A third reinforcement element 46 of the reinforcement elements 42, 44,46 is arranged within the receiving space 14. The third reinforcementelement 46 is arranged on an inner side of the base body 36 which inparticular delimits the receiving space 14. The third reinforcementelement 46 is rib-shaped. Thus the reinforcement feature 40 comprises atleast two reinforcement elements 42, 44, 46 which are shapeddifferently. The third reinforcement element 46 extends in a directionwhich is at least substantially perpendicular to the first receivingopening.

In addition, the reinforcement feature 40 comprises several furtherreinforcement elements, in the present case in particular at least sevenfurther reinforcement elements, which are shaped identically to thethird reinforcement element 46, which are arranged within the receivingspace 14 and which are distributed over the receiving space 14.Alternatively, a reinforcement feature may comprise merely onereinforcement element and/or merely identically shaped reinforcementelements. Furthermore, a reinforcement feature may comprise at leastfour, at least eight and/or at least twelve reinforcement elements whichin particular may be shaped differently. Moreover, it is conceivablethat a reinforcement feature comprises merely one reinforcement elementarranged within a receiving space or arranged outside the receivingspace.

In addition, the functional housing 10 defines a further receiving space50, which in particular has a second receiving opening for receiving anelectrical socket 52 of the home appliance device, which is inparticular configured for supplying the functional unit 16 with power,and has a third receiving opening for receiving electrical connectionelements like a cabling or similar (not shown). The further receivingspace 50 is smaller than the receiving space 14 by at least 60%. Thefurther receiving space 50 is located at a side of the base body 36which faces away from the first receiving opening and/or from the frontframe 26 at least in an assembled state. Herein, the second receivingopening is arranged at least substantially parallel to the mainextension plane of the home appliance housing 20. The third receivingopening is arranged at least substantially perpendicularly to the mainextension plane of the home appliance housing 20. The third receivingopening is arranged at least substantially perpendicularly to the secondreceiving opening. Alternatively, a further receiving space may haveexactly one receiving opening, in particular a second receiving openingor a third receiving opening. Furthermore, it is conceivable to change afunctionality of the receiving openings.

Furthermore, the functional housing 10 comprises a sealing unit 54. Thesealing unit 54 is implemented integrally with the base body 36. In thepresent case, the sealing unit is implemented as a gap seal and/or achamber seal. The sealing unit 54 is allocated to the third receivingopening. The sealing unit 54 is configured for sealing off the thirdreceiving opening in particular during the foaming process.Alternatively, a sealing unit may be implemented as a rubber seal and/ora labyrinth seal. Moreover, it is conceivable to implement a sealingunit separately from a base body.

Besides, the functional housing 10 comprises a first fastening unit 56(see also FIGS. 4a and 4b ). The first fastening unit 56 is located at aside of the base body 36 which faces the first receiving opening and/orthe front frame 26 at least in an assembled state. The first fasteningunit 56 is configured to fasten the functional housing 10 to the homeappliance housing 20. Herein, the first fastening unit 56 is configuredto detachably connect the base body 36 to the front frame 26. In thepresent case, the first fastening unit 56 cooperates with thecircumferential collar 38 for fastening the functional housing 10 to thehome appliance housing 20.

The first fastening unit 56 comprises a least one first fasteningelement 58. In the present case, the first fastening unit 56 comprisesseveral, in particular six, first fastening elements 58. The firstfastening elements 58 are implemented identically. The first fasteningelements 58 are circumferentially distributed over the first receivingopening. The first fastening elements 58 are hook-shaped. The firstfastening elements 58 are configured to bear against the front frame 26.

In the present case, the first fastening unit 56 is implemented in sucha way that for mounting the functional housing 10 to the home appliancehousing 20, the functional housing 10 is moved in two directions whichare at least substantially perpendicular with respect to each other.Herein, the functional housing 10 is first moved with respect to thehome appliance housing 20 in a first direction which is at leastsubstantially perpendicular to the main extension plane of the homeappliance housing 20, and is then moved with respect to the homeappliance housing 20 in a second direction which is at leastsubstantially parallel to the main extension plane of the home appliancehousing 20. Thus the functional housing 10 is mounted to the homeappliance housing 20 in a mounting direction which is parallel to themain extension plane of the home appliance housing 20. Alternatively, afirst fastening unit may comprise merely one first fastening elementand/or at least two differently shaped first fastening elements.Furthermore, a first fastening unit may comprise at least four, at leasteight or at least twelve first fastening elements. Moreover, it isconceivable that a first fastening unit is self-supporting in particularsuch that the first fastening unit refrains from cooperating with acircumferential collar. Moreover, a first fastening unit may beimplemented separately from a base body.

The home appliance device further comprises at least one attachmentelement 60, 62. In the present case, the home appliance device comprisestwo attachment elements 60, 62. A first attachment element 60 of theattachment elements 60, 62 is shown in FIGS. 5 to 8 while a secondattachment element 62 of the attachment elements 60, 62 is shown inFIGS. 9a to 10 c.

The first attachment element 60 is implemented as a supporting frame andconfigured for supporting the functional housing 10. The firstattachment element 60 is implemented integrally. The first attachmentelement 60 is at least substantially U-shaped. The first attachmentelement 60 is implemented of metal, in the present case in particular ofsteel. The first attachment element 60 has at least one recess 64, inthe present case at least six recesses, for a pass-through of insulationmaterial. The first attachment element 60 is implemented separately fromthe functional housing 10. Moreover, the first attachment element 60 isimplemented separately from the home appliance housing 20. The firstattachment element 60 is integrated in the home appliance housing 20.The first attachment element 60 is arranged at least largely within theinsulation-receiving chamber 12.

In an assembled state, the first attachment element 60 is connected tothe functional housing 10. The first attachment element 60 is in theassembled state detachably connected to the functional housing 20, inparticular in a form-fit and/or force-fit manner. In the present case,the first attachment element 60 is connected to the functional housing10 by at least one clamping connection and at least one snap-fitconnection. Moreover, in the assembled state the first attachmentelement 60 is arranged above the functional housing 10 with respect tothe base, the ground and/or the floor space of the home appliance 18.The first attachment element 60 contacts the upper exterior side of thebase body 36. In the present case, the first attachment element 60 atleast largely encompasses the functional housing 10 in a circumferentialdirection in the assembled state. The first attachment element 60extends over less than 50% and preferably less than 40% of the surfaceof the base body 36. Alternatively, a first attachment element may beimplemented in several parts. Moreover, a first attachment element maybe implemented of plastic. In addition, it is conceivable that a firstattachment element encompasses a functional housing completely.

For the purpose of connecting the first attachment element 60 to thefunctional housing 10, the first attachment element 60 comprises atleast one holding element 66, 68. In the present case, the firstattachment element 60 comprises several holding elements 66, 68.

A first holding element 66 of the holding elements 66, 68 is located ata first lateral side of the first attachment element 60. The firstholding element 66 is located at a side of the first attachment element60 which faces the front frame 26 at least in an assembled state. Thefirst holding element 66 is at least substantially hook-shaped. Thefirst holding element 66 defines a holding recess. The first holdingelement 66 is configured to cooperate with a further first holdingelement 70, in particular a holding pin, of the functional housing 10.

A second holding element 68 of the holding elements 66, 68 is located atthe first lateral side of the first attachment element 60. The secondholding element 68 is offset with respect to the first holding element66, in particular in a direction which is at least substantiallyperpendicular to the first receiving opening of the receiving space 14.The second holding element 68 is located at a side of the firstattachment element 60 which faces away from the front frame 26 at leastin an assembled state. The second holding element 68 is at leastsubstantially hook-shaped. The second holding element 68 defines aholding recess. The second holding element 68 is configured to cooperatewith a further second holding element 72, in particular a holding pin,of the functional housing 10.

In addition, the first attachment element 60 comprises two furtherholding elements, which are implemented identically to the first holdingelement 66 and the second holding element 68 and which are arranged at asecond lateral side of the first attachment element 60. Alternatively, afirst attachment element may comprise merely one holding element and/ortwo holding elements and/or six holding elements.

In addition, the first attachment element 60 comprises at least oneresilient element 74, in particular for the purpose of connecting thefirst attachment element 60 to the functional housing 10. In the presentcase, the first attachment element 60 comprises exactly one resilientelement 74.

The resilient element 74 is located at a top side of the firstattachment element 60, which is in particular at least substantialperpendicular to the first lateral side and the second lateral side ofthe first attachment element 60. The resilient element 74 is located ina central region of the top side of the first attachment element 60. Theresilient element 74 is located at a side of the first attachmentelement 60 which faces away from the front frame 26 at least in anassembled state. The resilient element 74 is implemented as a resilientarm. The resilient element 74 is configured to cooperate with an, inparticular ramp-shaped, connection element 76 of the functional housing10 (see FIG. 7c ). Alternatively, a first attachment element maycomprise at least two and/or at least three resilient elements.Moreover, it is conceivable to refrain from using a resilient element.

In the present case, the first attachment element 60 is implemented insuch a way that for mounting the first attachment element 60 to thefunctional housing 10, the first attachment element 60 is moved in twodirections which are at least substantially perpendicular with respectto each other (see in particular FIGS. 6a and 6b ). Herein, the firstattachment element 60 is first moved with respect to the functionalhousing 10 in a first direction which is at least substantiallyperpendicular to the base, the ground and/or the floor space of the homeappliance 18, and is then moved with respect to the functional housing10 in a second direction, which is at least substantially perpendicularto the first receiving opening of the receiving space 14. Thus the firstattachment element 60 is mounted to the functional housing 10 in amounting direction which is at least substantially perpendicular to thereceiving opening of the receiving space 14.

Moreover, the first attachment element 60 comprises a second fasteningunit 78. The second fastening unit 78 is located at a side of the firstattachment element 60 which faces the front frame 26 at least in anassembled state (see also FIG. 8). The second fastening unit 78 isconfigured to fasten the first attachment element 60 directly and inparticular the functional housing 10 indirectly to the home appliancehousing 20. Herein, the second fastening unit 78 is configured todetachably connect the first attachment element 60 to the front frame26, in particular to a horizontal plate-shaped region of the front frame26. In the present case, the second fastening unit 78 is configured forconnecting the first attachment element 60 to the front frame 26 by ascrew connection.

The second fastening unit 78 comprises a least one second fasteningelement 80, 82. In the present case, the second fastening unit 78comprises several, in particular at least three, second fasteningelements 80, 82. Thus at least two of the second fastening elements 80,82 are implemented differently.

One second fastening element 80 of the second fastening elements 80, 82protrudes from the first lateral side of the first attachment element60. The second fastening element 80 is at least substantially parallelto the top side of the first attachment element 60. The second fasteningelement 80 has at least two threaded holes in particular for connectingthe first attachment element 60 to the front frame 26.

Another second fastening element 82 of the second fastening elements 80,82 protrudes from the top side of the first attachment element 60. Theother second fastening element 82 is oriented at least substantiallyperpendicular to the top side of the first attachment element 60 and tothe first lateral side of the first attachment element 60. The othersecond fastening element 82 has at least two threaded holes inparticular for connecting the first attachment element 60 to the frontframe 26.

A further second fastening element of the second fastening elements 80,82 is implemented identically to the second fastening element 80 and islocated at the second lateral side of the first attachment element 60.

In the present case, the second fastening unit 78 is implemented in sucha way that for mounting the first attachment element 60 to the homeappliance housing 20, the first attachment element 60 is moved in twodirections which are at least substantially perpendicular with respectto each other. Herein, the first attachment element 60 is first movedwith respect to the home appliance housing 20 in a first direction,which is at least substantially perpendicular to the base, the groundand/or the floor space of the home appliance 18, and is then moved withrespect to the home appliance housing 20 in a second direction, which isat least substantially perpendicular to the main extension plane of thehome appliance housing 20. Alternatively, a second fastening unit maycomprise merely one second fastening element and/or at least four secondfastening elements. Moreover, a second fastening unit may be implementedseparately from a first attachment element.

The second attachment element 62 is implemented as a cover forelectronics and configured for covering the electrical socket 52. Thesecond attachment element 62 is implemented integrally. The secondattachment element 62 is implemented of plastic. The second attachmentelement 62 has at least one further recess 84, 86, in the present caseat least two recesses 84, 86, for receiving the electrical connectionelements like the cabling (not shown), and for receiving pneumaticallyconnection elements 88, like a hose. The second attachment element 62 isimplemented separately from the functional housing 10. The secondattachment element 62 is implemented separately from the firstattachment element 60. Moreover, the second attachment element 62 isimplemented separately from the home appliance housing 20. The secondattachment element 62 is integrated in the home appliance housing 20.The second attachment element 62 is arranged at least largely within theinsulation-receiving chamber 12.

In an assembled state, the second attachment element 62 is connected tothe functional housing 10. The second attachment element 62 is in theassembled state detachably connected to the functional housing 10, inparticular in a form-fit and/or force-fit manner. In the present case,the second attachment element 62 is connected to the functional housing10 by at least one snap-fit connection 90 (see FIG. 10c ). Moreover, inthe assembled state the second attachment element 62 covers the furtherreceiving space 50 and in particular the electrical socket 52. Thus thesecond attachment element 62 seals off the further receiving space 50,in particular during the foaming process, by a labyrinth seal. In thepresent case, the second attachment element 62 completely encompassesthe functional housing 10 in a circumferential direction in theassembled state.

In the present case, the second attachment element 62 is implemented insuch a way that for mounting the second attachment element 62 to thefunctional housing 10, the second attachment element 62 is moved in adirection which is at least substantially perpendicular to the mainextension plane of the home appliance housing 20. Therefore, the secondattachment element 62 is mounted to the functional housing 10 in amounting direction which is at least substantially perpendicular to thereceiving opening of the receiving space 14. Alternatively, a secondattachment element may be implemented in several parts. Moreover, asecond attachment element may be implemented of metal. In addition, itis conceivable that a second attachment element encompasses a functionalhousing merely largely.

The home appliance device further comprises at least one front coverelement 92. In the present case, the home appliance device comprisesexactly one front cover element 92. The front cover element 92 is shownin FIGS. 11a to 12.

The front cover element 92 is implemented integrally. The front coverelement 92 is at least substantially panel-shaped. The front coverelement 92 is implemented of plastic. Furthermore, the front coverelement 92 is implemented separately from the functional housing 10. Thefront cover element 92 is implemented separately from the home appliancehousing 20. Moreover, the front cover element 92 is implementedseparately from the home appliance door 30. The front cover element 92is arranged between the home appliance housing 20 and the home appliancedoor 30. Alternatively, a front cover element may be implemented inseveral parts. Moreover, a front cover element may be implemented ofmetal.

In an assembled state, the front cover element 92 is connected to thehome appliance housing 20, in the present case in particular to thefront frame 26. The front cover element 92 is in the assembled statedetachably connected to the front frame 26, in particular in a form-fitand/or force-fit manner. In the present case, the front cover element 92is not connected to the functional housing 10 and/or the functional unit16. The front cover element 92 is configured for covering the receivingspace 14 and in particular the receiving opening of the receiving space14 at least largely and/or the aperture 35 of the front frame 26 atleast largely.

The front cover element 92 has at least one, in the present case exactlyone, opening 94, for a pass-through of the functional element 34 of thefunctional unit 16. The opening 94 has a circular shape. The opening 94is offset with respect to a geometric center of the front cover element92 at least if viewed in a direction which is at least substantiallyperpendicular to a main extension plane of the front cover element 92.Alternatively, a front cover element may comprise at least two and/or atleast four openings. Moreover, an opening can be located in a centralregion of a front cover element.

In addition, the front cover element 92 has, in at least one direction98, an extension which exceeds an extension of the receiving space 14 insaid direction 98 by at least 30%. In the present case, the direction 98is a longitudinal direction of the front cover element 92. Herein, thefront cover element 92 is offset with respect to the receiving space 14at least if viewed in a direction which is at least substantiallyperpendicular to a main extension plane of the front cover element 92.In the present case, the front cover element 92 is configured forcovering the receiving space 14 and at least one further component, inthe present case in particular installation parts.

For this purpose, the front cover element 92 comprises a front panel 96.The front panel 96 is rectangular. The front panel 96 defines a mainpart of the front cover element 92. Alternatively, it is conceivablethat a front panel may be circular and/or oval.

For the purpose of connecting the front cover element 92 to the homeappliance housing 20, the front cover element 92 comprises a thirdfastening unit 100 (see FIG. 11b ). The third fastening unit 100 islocated at a side of the front panel 96 which faces the front frame 26at least in an assembled state. The third fastening unit 100 isconfigured to fasten the front panel 96 to the home appliance housing20. Herein, the third fastening unit 100 is configured to detachablyconnect the front panel 96 to the front frame 26. In the present case,the third fastening unit 100 is configured to connect the front panel 96to the front frame 26 by a snap-fit connection.

The third fastening unit 100 comprises a least one third fasteningelement 102, 104. In the present case, the third fastening unit 100comprises several, in particular at least six, third fastening elements102, 104. Herein, the third fastening elements 102, 104 are merelylocated in a peripheral region of the front panel 96. Hence, a centralregion of the front panel 96 is free from third fastening elements 102,104. Moreover, at least two of the third fastening elements 102, 104 areimplemented differently from each other.

One third fastening element 102 of the third fastening elements 102, 104is located in a close vicinity of a longitudinal side wall of the frontcover element 92 (see also FIG. 11c ). The third fastening element 102protrudes from the front panel 96 in a direction which is at leastsubstantially perpendicular to the main extension plane of the frontcover element 92. The third fastening element 102 is implemented as asnap-fit element. The third fastening element 102 comprises an, inparticular at least substantially rectangular-cuboid-shaped, baseportion 106 and an, in particular annular and/or circumferentiallyclosed, fastening portion 108.

Another third fastening element 104 of the third fastening elements 102,104 is located in a close vicinity of a lateral side wall of the frontcover element 92 (see also FIG. 11d ). The other third fastening element104 protrudes from the front panel 96 in a direction which is at leastsubstantially perpendicular to the main extension plane of the frontcover element 92. The other third fastening element 104 is implementedas a snap-fit element. The other third fastening element 104 comprisesan, in particular at least substantially cross-shaped, further baseportion 110 and an, in particular annular and/or circumferentiallyclosed, further fastening portion 112.

Further third fastening elements of the third fastening elements 102,104 are implemented identically to the third fastening element 102and/or the other third fastening element 104 and are distributed overthe front panel 96.

In the present case, the front cover element 92 is implemented in such away that for mounting the front cover element 92 to the front frame 26,the front cover element 92 is moved in a direction which is at leastsubstantially perpendicular to the main extension plane of the homeappliance housing 20. Therefore, the front cover element 92 is mountedto the home appliance housing 20 in a mounting direction which is atleast substantially perpendicular to the receiving opening of thereceiving space 14. Alternatively, a third fastening unit may comprisemerely one third fastening element and/or at least four third fasteningelements. Moreover, a third fastening unit may be implemented separatelyfrom a front cover element.

In addition, the front cover element 92 has at least one depression 114,116. In the present case, the front cover element 92 has severaldepressions 114, 116. A number of depressions 114, 116 is equal to anumber of third fastening elements 102, 104. In the present case, eachdepression 114, 116 is allocated to one of the third fastening elements102, 104. The depressions 114, 116 are configured for detaching thefront cover element 92 from the front frame 26, in particular by merelyusing simple tools like a screwdriver (not shown).

For this reason, protective sheets 118, 120 are affixed to the frontpanel 96 and allocated to each of the third fastening elements 102, 104.The protective sheets 118, 120 are configured for preventing ascratching of the front panel 96. Alternatively, a number of depressionsand a number of third fastening elements may differ. Moreover, it isconceivable to refrain from using protective sheets and/or to useexactly one protective sheet and/or a protective coating instead ofprotective sheets.

Furthermore, the front cover element 92 comprises at least one spacerelement 122. The spacer element 122 is at least substantiallyrectangular-cuboid-shaped.

The spacer element 122 is configured for supporting the front panel 96.The spacer element 122 is configured for preventing sink marks. For thispurpose, the spacer element 122 bears against the home appliance housing20 and in particular the front frame 26. In the present case, the spacerelement 122 is implemented integrally with the third fastening element102 and in particular formed by the base portion 106 of the thirdfastening element 102. Alternatively, a spacer element may beimplemented separately from a third fastening element. Moreover, it isconceivable to refrain from using a spacer element.

A method for assembling the home appliance device is shown in FIG. 13and comprises the following steps:

In a first step 124, the first attachment element 60 is connected to thefunctional housing 10. In a second step 126, the functional housing 10is connected to the front frame 26, in particular via the firstfastening unit 56. In a third step 128, the first attachment element 60is connected to the front frame 26, in particular via the secondfastening unit 78. In a fourth step 130, the electrical socket 52 isinserted into the further receiving space 50. In a fifth step 132, thesecond attachment element 62 is connected to the functional housing 10.In a sixth step 134, the home appliance housing 20 is assembled and theinsulation-receiving chamber 12 is filled with the insulation material,in particular foam insulation. In a seventh step 136, the functionalunit 16 is inserted into the receiving space 14. Finally, in an eighthstep 138, the front cover element 92 is connected to the front frame 26,in particular via the third fastening unit 100.

The following is a summary list of reference numerals and thecorresponding structure used in the above description of the invention:

-   -   10 functional housing    -   12 insulation-receiving chamber    -   14 receiving space    -   16 functional unit    -   18 home appliance    -   20 home appliance housing    -   22 inner liner    -   24 side wall    -   26 front frame    -   28 storage space    -   30 home appliance door    -   32 pivot axis    -   34 functional element    -   35 aperture    -   36 base body    -   38 circumferential collar    -   40 reinforcement feature    -   42 reinforcement element    -   44 reinforcement element    -   46 reinforcement element    -   50 receiving space    -   52 electrical socket    -   54 sealing unit    -   56 fastening unit    -   58 fastening element    -   60 attachment element    -   62 attachment element    -   64 recess    -   66 holding element    -   68 holding element    -   70 holding element    -   72 holding element    -   74 resilient element    -   76 connection element    -   78 fastening unit    -   80 fastening element    -   82 fastening element    -   84 recess    -   86 recess    -   88 connection element    -   90 snap-fit connection    -   92 front cover element    -   94 opening    -   96 front panel    -   98 direction    -   100 fastening unit    -   102 fastening element    -   104 fastening element    -   106 base portion    -   108 fastening portion    -   110 base portion    -   112 fastening portion    -   114 depression    -   116 depression    -   118 protective sheet    -   120 protective sheet    -   122 spacer element    -   124 step    -   126 step    -   128 step    -   130 step    -   132 step    -   134 step    -   136 step    -   138 step

1. A home appliance device, comprising: at least one functional housing,which is arranged at least largely within an insulation-receivingchamber and defines at least one receiving space for receiving at leastone functional unit, the functional housing being implementedself-supporting by having a reinforcement feature for at leastsubstantially maintaining a shape of the functional housing during afoaming process of the insulation-receiving chamber; at least oneattachment element which at least partly encompasses the functionalhousing in an assembled state, the at least one attachment elementmounted to the insulation receiving chamber and supporting thefunctional housing.
 2. The home appliance device according to claim 1,wherein the reinforcement feature includes at least one reinforcementelement, which is arranged at least partly within the receiving space.3. The home appliance device according to claim 1, wherein thereinforcement feature includes at least one further reinforcementelement, which is arranged at least partly outside the receiving space.4. The home appliance device according to claim 1, wherein thereinforcement feature covers merely a portion of an exterior side of thefunctional housing.
 5. The home appliance device according to claim 1,wherein the reinforcement feature includes at least two reinforcementelements which are shaped differently.
 6. The home appliance deviceaccording to claim 1, wherein the reinforcement feature includes atleast one reinforcement element which is honeycomb-shaped.
 7. The homeappliance device according to claim 1, wherein the reinforcement featureincludes at least one reinforcement element which is rib-shaped.
 8. Thehome appliance device according to claim 1, wherein the functionalhousing is implemented at least partly of plastic.
 9. The home appliancedevice according to claim 1, wherein the functional housing has afastening unit for fastening the functional housing to a home appliancehousing.
 10. The home appliance device according to claim 1, wherein thefunctional housing has a sealing unit for sealing at least oneelectrical socket during the foaming process.
 11. The home appliancedevice according to claim 1, further comprising a holding recessprovided on the at least one attachment element and a holding pindisposed on the functional housing, the holding pin mating with theholding recess for supporting the functional housing.
 12. The homeappliance device according to claim 1, further comprising at least onefront cover element covering the receiving space at least largely andhaving, in at least one direction, an extension which exceeds anextension of the receiving space in said direction by at least 5%.
 13. Ahome appliance, comprising at least one home appliance device accordingto claim
 1. 14. A home appliance device, comprising: at least onefunctional housing being disposed substantially within aninsulation-receiving chamber and defining a receiving space forreceiving at least one functional unit, the functional housing beingself-supporting by having a reinforcement feature for at leastsubstantially maintaining a shape of the functional housing during afoaming process of the insulation-receiving chamber, the reinforcementelement including a honeycomb array of a plurality of cells adjoiningone another and axially projecting from an external side of the housing,the reinforcement element including a reinforcement rib within thereceiving space.